As one of the newer segments of the beauty industry, cosmetic tattoos, sometimes referred to a permanent makeup, are rapidly growing in popularity. What are cosmetic tattoos? They are exactly what they sound like–permanent makeup that is tattooed into a person’s skin with special pigments. You may be asking yourself why anyone would want to undergo tattooing just to avoid having to put on makeup in the morning. While some may find that it sounds like an odd concept, the fact is that it is an effective technique to correct such flaws as scarring and loss of eyebrows. Like all tattooing, permanent makeup should only be applied by a trained professional whose primary concern is the safety of the client. Such a professional should be able to inform you of any potential side effects that you could face, as well as the other risks inherent in the procedure.

The key to success, whether you’re interested in becoming part of this industry or simply want to take advantage of the benefits of cosmetic tattooing, is proper training and the best supplies. Premier Pigments is one of the top names in the permanent cosmetics field in regards to both. If you’re interested in learning how to perform this fascinating technique, there is no one better to turn to for training. And if you are a technician in the market for equipment and pigments for your business, they are the industry’s premier supplier.

Is your wardrobe suffering from the economy? I know mine is! In the constant quest to keep myself looking at least semi-professional, I am always on the lookout for classic styles and high-quality fabric. Now more than ever seems like a good time to buy classic styles rather than the latest trends, items in colors that all match one another, and shoes that will match every possible combination of colors! It never fails that after a day of really prudent shopping, the rebel in me insists on getting something like florescent pink shoes that will go with nothing else I own—but I’m fighting that urge like mad these days.

There are numerous other issues with my personal wardrobe recession. Like everyone, I have other things that need purchasing. Things around the house need fixing. My car needs a ton of fixing. I need to make a trip to see my family…in the order of priority, my tennis shoes that are falling apart just aren’t really making it to the top of the priority ladder. However, it’s time to buy some clothes. This afternoon, I’m going to reward my recent fashion deprivation efforts, which have resulted in wisely allocated funds to my 401(k) account and my immediate savings, with an online trip to Chic Star. This store carries everything from capri pants to jackets, fabrics ranging from shimmery to denim and everything in between. However, because it’s also affordable, my little shopping sojourn will neither deplete my bank account nor ruin the progress I’ve made in getting my finances in order!

Wish me luck. And by that, I mean self-control! I want to take a small online shopping sojourn, not an online shopping rampage!

Every rich bitch loves the feel of a quality cashmere sweater, especially as the weather grows colder during the winter months.  But did you know there are very specific rules governing what counts as cashmere and what doesn’t?  There is actually a U.S. Wool Products Labeling Act that dates back to 1939 that was amended with a specific definition of cashmere.  Legally, it is required that the cashmere must come from Capra hircus laniger (the cashmere goat), the fibers must have an average diameter that doesn’t exceed 19 microns, and less than 3% of the fibers can exceed 30 microns. Who knew that so much detail went into the label of your favorite scarf, sweater, or blanket?

There’s also occasionally some confusion about the difference between cashmere and pashmina.   The fact is that they both come from the same source.  However, pashmina is hand-spun Capra Hircus hairs, as opposed to the modern methods that have been developed to handle cashmere.  Today, the term is used almost exclusively for the popular scarves with the knotted fringe.  This has, of course, led to misnomers like viscose pashmina and even wool pashmina, which aren’t actually made from the real cashmere fibers. Whether you’re looking for pure cashmere or you want a blend such as linen or silk, make sure that you’re buying from a reliable source.  That way, you know you can count on the statements they provide regarding the composition and the content of the cashmere you’re buying.

Whether you’re the type that changes your hair style and color as often as you change your shoes, or your hair has looked the same for longer than you dare to remember, it can be difficult figuring out exactly what you want to do with your locks next.  Maybe you’re one of the lucky few that has a trusted stylist who knows how your hair works and what type of style is best suited for you.  However, most of us don’t have someone that we’re comfortable enough with to risk saying “do what you will” and still expect a result that we’ll be happy with.  How then do you figure out exactly what to tell your stylist to do with your hair?

The answer, as with so many things these days, lies through the power of technology.  Believe it or not, there is actually software that lets you see how different hairstyles will work with your facial structure.  While you can find software like this in computer stores, it’s easier to simply do a search online — there are numerous websites that offer this type of tool for you to use.  Generally, they allow you to upload a photo of your face and then “try on” the sample hairstyles that they have available.  Help narrow down your options or find the perfect style for yourself.  Remember that these high-tech tools can’t tell you if a style will actually work with your hair — count on your stylist for a final opinion.

This fashion season, bigger and bolder is the “it look” when it comes to accessories.  This is particularly true of necklaces, with some styles so ambitious and oversized that they look almost uncomfortable.  However, the staggering number of styles means there’s a look that will work for almost anyone that isn’t interested in playing style wallflower.

Aside from just being large and in charge, many of the necklaces we’re seeing feature chunky, asymmetric looks.  The materials used in the crafting of the pieces run the gamut from precious to plastic.  Popular designer Tarina Tarantino uses candy-colored charms to evoke the brighter days of childhood.  Louis Vuitton offers a strikingly abstract piece grafted from glass and metal, as much artwork as accessory.  If you’re a fan of sparkle and shine, the luscious crystal creation of Daniel Swarovski might be the perfect accessory for you to add to your jewelry box.  You can also add a touch of nature to your style in a big way with some of the selections available.  Kara Ross offers a stunning necklace that features raw tourmaline crystals–uncut gems in rainbow shades make this an accessory that’s sure to draw attention.  For an earthier touch, take a look at Fendi’s style, featuring oversized wooden beads.

One of the hottest shapes in handbags and shoulder bags this fall is the satchel.  With a wide variety of styles available from all of your favorite designers, it’s easy to find the bag that best fits your tastes.  Some of our favorites include the bags listed here.

Anya Hindmarch offers a gorgeous metallic weave, perfect for transitioning from day to night.   This sumptuous leather bag is certain to be the shining star of your wardrobe.

Ralph Lauren’s red and black plaid shoulder bag is a true classic.  The brilliant color and cozy wool are the perfect way to warm up a cold winter day.

Malo offers a sleek leather bag that perfectly captures the feminine pastels that are so prevalent this season.  The almost art deco styling of this classy bag is certain to attract the right kind of attention.

For a brilliant burst of eye-popping color, be sure to check out the suede shoulder bag by Etro.  This vibrant purple bag with a touch of western flair isn’t for the faint of heart–no shy violets allowed.

Escada’s contribution to the world of satchels is a cherry-red handbag that shines in patent calfskin.  It may be roomy enough for all of your stuff, but this is one brilliant bag that could never be dismissed as practical.

Coach offers a luxe sterling leather bag with gold hardware.  Two-tone is twice as nice — this spacious bag has enough space for everything you might need to bring along.

They say it isn’t how you look but how you feel, and if you’re sixty years old but still feel sexy and you want to wear a strapless dress that bares your bosom then you should have the right to do that; but quite frankly, there comes a point in a woman’s life when she really should cover herself up regardless of how she feels, just out of consideratin for the  rest of the world.

Seriously, I mean no offense to Ivana Trump. I understand that on principle she should have the freedom to dress however she pleases; and if we find the sight of her offensive that’s our problem not hers. Nevertheless, it would be nice if Ivana would put away the strapless and otherwise revealing dresses and just accept that her youth has passed and she has nothing to show off any more. Far from it, she now has a body that really needs to be concealed; and she should consider her young husband’s feelings and how embarrassing it must be for him to have her going around showing the entire world all the evidence of his private horror.

Neiman Marcus is holding a private shopping event for the next couple of days. You’ll be able to save as much as 40% off original prices on over 150 designers. The items will be returning to their original prices on November 9th, so you’ll want to hurry on over and pick yourself up some hot designer shoes, designer handbags and clothes.

Of course, even with 40% off most of the items are still very expensive.

Apparently wearing animal print means you have a wild, flashy personality; but even a tame, low-key lady can wear an animal print scarf. A scarf is just an accessory that adds a little extra style to an outfit.

An animal print scarf won’t necessarily send out the same message as stiletto animal print boots paired with animal print leggings, or a buddy hugging, cleavage baring animal print dress with 5-inch animal print pumps.

Fashion Scarves and Shawls, located on the web at fashionscarvesandshawls.com has a collection of animal print scarves which they decribe as “fun, exciting and unique”.

If you are looking to add an animal print scarf to your collection you should check them out. Fashion Scarves and Shawls animal print scarves

I’ve never understood the appeal of fur coats. I get that they keep you warm. Why else would man have gotten into the habit of trapping animals and taking their fur to make coats for themselves?

I’m no PETA member or a particularly animal rights conscious person, but I figure if man wasn’t able to survive in winter without his own fur covered skin man would have skin covered in thick fur at least in the winter months. Since it’s clear we can devise ways to keep ourselves warm without the need for any kind of fur, I don’t see the need to go to such extremes as to take the fur off other animals backs to make coats and other essentially unnecessary items for our own use.

Then when you factor in the reality behind fur coats, which isn’t one of favoring them for their capacity to keep the wearer warm, but owning them as symbols of status, it becomes even more difficult to justify the existence of a fur industry. Seriously, don’t the animals have any rights? Why is it okay to take from them what belongs to them just because they can’t take you to court and sue you?

Aside from the animal rights aspect I simply don’t find fur coats attractive. They make people look massive, misshapen and ridiculous.

Image: more fancy fur coats by echoforsberg via Flickr